Microdermabrasion for Acne Melbourne

Microdermabrasion is a procedure that exfoliates and removes the superficial layer of dry, dead skin cells. According to licensed medical aesthetician Maria Barry at Union Square Laser Dermatology, microdermabrasion machines can buff and polish the skin using a stream of fine crystals or a diamond tip.

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Microdermabrasion for acne, model 01, Nitai Clinic

About Therapy

Microdermabrasion for acne - How it works
When using microdermabrasion to treat acne it is highly advisable that the procedure is supervised by an experienced doctor who can accurately assess whether or not your skin type is suitable for this type of treatment.

Assuming your skin is suitable and your acne is at a point that will react favorably to the treatment microdermabrasion can be a very effective and reasonably quick way of dealing with your acne problem.

With many years of experience and all the necessary qualifications, Dr Shobhna Singh has dealt with many hundreds of acne sufferers in her career and is more than qualified to assess your skin type and carry out the appropriate acne treatment which is best for you.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a superficial, non-invasive exfoliation that removes the outermost layer of dead skin cells using either a stream of fine crystals or a diamond-tipped wand with suction. It polishes the skin, promotes cell turnover and can improve skin texture and superficial scarring.

How does microdermabrasion help acne and acne scarring?

For active mild acne, microdermabrasion can help by unclogging pores and removing debris and dead skin that contribute to whiteheads and blackheads. For superficial acne scarring (mild to moderate rolling/scattered textural scars), repeated microdermabrasion can soften and smooth the skin, though deeper scars often need stronger resurfacing (e.g., fractional lasers, deeper peels or subcision). Clinical studies show modest improvements for mild–moderate scars; deeper scarring usually requires more aggressive approaches.

Is microdermabrasion safe for active, inflamed acne (pustular/papular/cystic acne)?

Microdermabrasion is generally not recommended directly over acutely inflamed, pustular or nodulocystic acne because the mechanical abrasion and suction can irritate or spread infection and may worsen inflammation. A practitioner should assess acne type and timing; many clinics treat comedonal acne and mild non-inflammatory lesions but avoid active inflammatory flares. (If you have active severe acne, medical therapy is usually started first.)

Who is a good candidate?

Good candidates:

  • People with mild comedonal acne, blackheads or mild textural acne scarring.
  • Those seeking minimal-downtime resurfacing and pore refinement.

Who should avoid Microdermabrasion treatment for acne?

People with active inflammatory cystic acne, widespread rosacea flares, some infectious skin conditions, or those with a history of troublesome post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (discuss risk with your clinician).

How long does each treatment take, and is it painful?

A typical microdermabrasion session lasts around 20–45 minutes (depending on the area treated). It is usually described as comfortable rather than painful and is characterised by a mild scratching or vibration sensation. Topical numbing is rarely required for standard microdermabrasion.

How many sessions will I need and how often?

Most clinics recommend a course of multiple treatments for visible improvement. Typical regimens range from about 4–12 sessions, usually spaced 1–4 weeks apart, depending on skin condition and device strength. Maintenance sessions every few months are common. Exact numbers vary by individual goals (acne control vs scar improvement).

What should I expect immediately after treatment (downtime)?

Downtime is minimal. Expect mild redness, light swelling or increased sensitivity—similar to a mild sunburn—for 24–72 hours. Skin may feel tight and look brighter once healed. Serious downtime is uncommon with microdermabrasion.

What are the common side effects and risks?

Common, usually temporary side effects:

  • Redness, mild swelling, and increased skin sensitivity.
  • Flaking or slight dryness for a few days.

Less common risks:

  • Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in people prone to dark spots (especially if sun exposure is not avoided).
  • Infection or persistent irritation if performed over infected lesions or on compromised skin.

Selecting a qualified clinician reduces risk.

Can people with darker skin tones have microdermabrasion?

Yes. But darker skin types have a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. A careful assessment and gentler settings, and strict sun protection afterwards, are important. In many cases, a dermatologist-supervised approach is safest.

Can I combine microdermabrasion with other acne treatments?

Yes. Microdermabrasion is commonly combined with topical treatments (retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid), light chemical peels, or professional facials to enhance results. Some deeper procedures (aggressive laser resurfacing, deep chemical peels) may be scheduled separately. A customised treatment plan from your practitioner is recommended.

How soon will I see results?

For skin texture and a smoother feel, you may notice a subtle improvement after the first session. For visible improvement in scarring or pigmentation, expect a series of treatments (several weeks to a few months) to see meaningful change.

What aftercare should I follow?

Key aftercare:

  • Avoid direct sun exposure and use broad-spectrum SPF diligently.
  • Use gentle cleansers and hydrating products; avoid harsh scrubs or strong active acids for several days unless advised.
  • Follow any prescribed topical regimen or medical acne therapy suggested by your clinician.

Proper aftercare reduces the risk of pigmentation and infection.

Will microdermabrasion remove acne scars completely?

No. Microdermabrasion can improve the appearance of mild to some moderate acne scarring (textural smoothing), but deep ice-pick or boxcar scars typically require additional treatments (fractional lasers, subcision, deep peels, PRP, or combination therapy). Set realistic expectations: improvement rather than complete elimination for deep scars.

How much does microdermabrasion cost?

Cost varies by clinic, the device used, the area treated and the number of sessions. Nitai lists the treatment under their acne offerings. Contact us now for up-to-date pricing and package discounts for multi-session courses.

Can teenagers have microdermabrasion?

Teenagers with comedonal acne and blackheads can benefit from professional superficial microdermabrasion, but treatment must be clinician-directed and combined with appropriate medical acne care (topicals/oral therapy when needed). For active inflammatory or cystic acne, medical therapy is often prioritised.

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Monday 9:00am – 5:00pm

Tuesday 9:00am – 5:00pm

Wednesday 9:00am – 5:00pm

Thursday 9:00am – 7:00pm

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64 Lincoln Rd, Essendon, Vic, 3040, AustraliaMap Link

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